11 Day Highlights of Croatia

About the destination: Often forgotten by tourist seeking the sun and coastline, Zagreb is an alluring destination on its own. The capital city of Croatia is a perfect mixture of Western and Eastern Europe. The sober Austro-Hungarian buildings are surrounded by chic restaurants and boutiques that contrast with the seedy pubs and loud beer halls. Zagreb offers a wide choice for visitors. From trendy art galleries to more traditional music halls and museums, and outdoor leisure, a lot of outdoor leisure. Maksimir Park, in the east, is filled with joggers, bikers and strollers. In the southeast of the city, we find Jarun Lake, where locals and tourists alike go to swim or sail and to, afterwards, dance the night away in a lakeside disco. Just a ride away on the shine new trams, we find Mt Medvednica that offers hiking, skiing and great views over the city. Either you are looking for a city break or a break from your lazy beach holidays, Zagreb won’t disappoint visitors in the slightest.

About the destination: Within the boundaries of this heavily forested national park, 16 crystalline lakes tumble into each other via a series of waterfalls and cascades. The mineral-rich waters carve through the rock, depositing tufa in continually changing formations. Clouds of butterflies drift above the 18km of wooden footbridges and pathways that snake around the edges and across the rumbling water.

About the destination: Split, Croatia’s vibrant coastal hub, blends ancient history with a lively Mediterranean atmosphere. At its heart lies Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels more like a living city than a museum. Wander its maze of marble streets, stumble upon hidden courtyards, and admire the mix of Roman, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. Don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and the climb up its bell tower for sweeping views over the terracotta rooftops and sparkling Adriatic Sea. The city’s seaside promenade, the Riva, is where locals and visitors converge from morning coffee to late-night cocktails. Lined with palm trees, cafes, and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to people-watch and soak up the Dalmatian lifestyle. Just behind, the bustling Green Market and fish market offer a glimpse of everyday life in Split, with stalls piled high with fresh produce, local cheeses, and seafood straight from the Adriatic. For swimming and relaxation, head to Bačvice Beach, famous for its shallow waters and the local ball game “picigin,” or explore quieter pebbled beaches like Kašjuni and Firule. Nature lovers should hike or bike through Marjan Hill, a forested park offering panoramic viewpoints, small chapels, and secluded coves ideal for a peaceful dip. The shaded trails and sea breezes make it a refreshing escape from the city center. Split also serves as an excellent base for exploring the Dalmatian coast and islands. Everyday ferries and catamarans link the city to Hvar, Brač, Šolta, and Vis, each with its own character—from chic nightlife and vineyards to quiet fishing villages and hidden bays. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, foodie, beach lover, or island-hopper, Split offers a compelling mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure.

About the destination: Hvar is a Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea, located off the Dalmatian coast, lying between the islands of Brač, Vis and Korčula. The island of Hvar is unusual in the area for having a large fertile coastal plain, and fresh water springs. Its hillsides are covered in pine forests, with vineyards, olive groves, fruit orchards and lavender fields in the agricultural areas. The climate is characterized by mild winters, and warm summers with many hours of sunshine. The Town Square in Hvar is among the most beautiful and the largest in Croatia. There is also a fortress at the top of the hill with walls that encompass parts of the city. The Cathedral of St. Stephen dominates one end of the Town Square, and was built during the 16th and 17th centuries. The bell tower of this cathedral is four-stories high, with each level more elaborately decorated than the last. The cathedral was built over a previously existing cathedral that was destroyed by the Turks. Unique ceramics decorated with spiral ornaments in red, yellow, brown, and white were found at a Neolithic archeological site, Grapčeva špilja, near Hvar Town. Hvar is beautiful, crystal-clear blue sea, big green hills, clean air and lots of old stone. At sundown a stroll up old lanes from the square in Hvar Town leads up to another lane which, high above the others is extremely attractive and shouldn’t be missed.

About the destination: George Bernard Shaw called Dubrovnik “the pearl of the Adriatic, a paradise on earth”, and, indeed, it may be one of the most beautiful cities you’ll ever see. Largely built and long inhabited by Venetians, Dubrovnik possesses a stately charm and striking architectural unity that draw thousands of visitors every summer. Founded in 7th century, Dubrovnik stood amid a great forest of oak trees, from which it took its name. Take a walk atop the old city walls for vistas of the old town and the surrounding coast. Just before exiting the old town through the western gate, turn right to visit the Franciscan Monastery and peaceful cloisters. Just inside the entrance is the oldest European pharmacy, founded in 1371. In the northern corner of the old city is the Dominican Cloister and Museum, with a polyptych by Titian. The impressive Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary stands in the centre of Poljana Marin Držić and its treasury can be visited; look for the work by Raphael. Dubrovnik has warm, crystalline waters; don’t just admire it from a distance and take a dive. The intrepid can dive and sunbathe along the rocks or swim around the walls of the city while others gawk above. Dubrovnik’s impressive battlements gleam in the early morning light, but by early afternoon, the sea’s clear blue waters beckon you away from the city and its tourist din. If you can stand the crunch, you, too, may find a piece of heaven.